A Panic Attack is a sudden surge of intense fear or discomfort that reaches a peak within minutes, accompanied by physical and cognitive symptoms such as a pounding heart, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, or fear of losing control or dying.
Key Points:
- Duration & Onset: Typically peak in intensity within 10 minutes, and then gradually subside.
- Triggers: Can be unexpected (seemingly out of the blue) or situational (e.g., related to phobias, stressful events).
- Physiological Signs: Rapid heartbeat, hyperventilation, muscle tension, nausea, chills or hot flashes.
- Management: Breathing techniques, grounding exercises, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and sometimes medication (e.g., SSRIs, benzodiazepines).
